Dec 5, 2010

Main facade of the High School at Bhavnagar in Gujarat - 1860s


Photograph of the main facade of the High School at Bhavnagar in Gujarat, taken by an unknown photographer, from an album of 40 prints dating from the 1860s.

The erstwhile princely state of Bhavnagar on the coast of Gujarat is an important port and cotton trading centre. The city was founded in 1723 by Bhavsinhji of the clan of Gohil Rajputs who had settled in the region after moving down from Marwar in Rajasthan in the 12th century. The strategic location on the Gulf of Khambat (Cambay) was carefully chosen and Bhavnagar prospered with its maritime trade. The city has a vibrant old bazaar centre but little architecture of note. Mahatma Gandhi reputedly attended a college here and there is a museum of Gandhi memorabilia.

Source: British Library (bl.uk)